Customs and importing can come with a lot of questions. We've gathered useful government resources, practical starting points and answers to common questions so you can better understand the process.
U.S. importing involves different requirements depending on the goods, country of origin, classification, value and other factors. There isn't one answer that applies to every shipment.
These resources are a starting point for understanding the process. For shipment-specific questions, you can always talk with Ember Path Global.
Start with the resource that matches the question you're trying to answer.
Learn the basics of importing into the United States and what new importers should consider.
CBP Import Basics →The U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule contains tariff classifications and duty information for imported merchandise.
Search the HTS →FDA provides resources for food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, animal products and other regulated imports.
FDA Import Program →CBP maintains information about licensed and permitted customs brokers and how to locate them.
CBP Broker Resources →Learn about entry summary documentation, cargo release and the post-release process.
CBP Entry Information →If you're not sure where to begin, tell us about your shipment and we'll start with the information that matters.
Talk to Ember Path →These links take you directly to official U.S. government resources. Requirements and information can change, so use the current source when checking shipment-specific rules.
Importing basics, entry requirements, trade programs, ports, customs information and resources for importers.
Search the current Harmonized Tariff Schedule and review tariff classifications and applicable duty information.
Import requirements and resources for FDA-regulated products, including foods, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics and more.
Trade data, export filing resources, ACE AESDirect information and international trade references.
Information about customs brokers, licensing and permitted broker resources maintained by CBP.
These are some of the areas importers commonly need to understand when preparing for U.S. entry.
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule provides the classification structure used for imported merchandise and associated tariff treatment.
Open HTS →Entry documentation provides information used by CBP to assess duties, collect statistics and determine whether other legal requirements have been met.
Learn About Entry →FDA-regulated products can have additional requirements and are reviewed through the import process when offered for entry.
Explore FDA →A customs broker can act on behalf of an importer in customs business. CBP provides resources for locating permitted brokers.
Broker Resources →FDA-regulated imports can include food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, dietary supplements, animal and veterinary products, tobacco products and radiation-emitting electronic products.
A few common questions to help you understand where customs support fits into the import process.
CBP states that there is no legal requirement for an importer to hire a customs broker. However, many importers choose to use one for convenience and assistance with customs business. The importer remains ultimately responsible for knowing applicable CBP requirements and ensuring compliance.
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule, or HTS, provides the classification structure used for merchandise imported into the United States. The classification is used for tariff and statistical purposes, with applicable duty treatment depending on the goods and other factors.
The information required can depend on the goods, entry type, shipment details and other applicable requirements. Start by gathering the information available about the product, supplier, country of origin, value and shipment. Ember Path Global can help you understand what information should be reviewed for your situation.
CBP describes an entry summary as documentation used to enable CBP to assess duties, collect statistics and determine whether other legal requirements have been met. Specific filing requirements and timing depend on the entry.
FDA-regulated products can be subject to additional requirements and FDA review. FDA-regulated categories include products such as food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, dietary supplements and certain animal, tobacco and radiation-emitting products.
Yes. The U.S. International Trade Commission maintains the online Harmonized Tariff Schedule. However, classification can depend on the specific characteristics and facts of the merchandise, so a search result should not automatically be treated as the final classification for a shipment.
If available, have information about the product, country of origin, supplier, intended use, value, quantity and shipping details. The more specific the information, the easier it is to understand which requirements may be relevant.
Every shipment is different, and customs or other government agencies may make their own determinations. Ember Path Global can help you understand the information and requirements involved in your import and provide practical support based on the circumstances of your shipment.
If you've reviewed the resources and still aren't sure what applies to your shipment, start with a conversation. Tell us what you're importing and we'll help you understand where to begin.
Talk About Your Shipment →